Tensions between the community of Esterhazy and town employees continue to flare – with 80 per cent of workers voting in favour of job action – up to and including a full withdrawal of services. The union representing the workers, CUPE 5428, announced results of the vote on Wednesday. While the local is not in a legal position to strike – it says the move was made as the town attempts to “force a vote on an offer that would shift seniority and remove union members from the bargaining unit.” CUPE characterized the town’s actions as “union busting.” According to CUPE, the town currently employs 11 permanent staff who are members of the union. The workers’ last collective agreement expired in 2023. Since then, the town and union have been actively bargaining. “We should be coming together and doing our best to get a deal that works for everyone, but the employer is instead doubling down on their union busting tactics and offering a worse deal,” President of CUPE 5428 Joe Richardson said in the update. “We are hopeful that a deal can be reached at the bargaining table, but our members have sent a strong message: We deserve a fair deal, and we are willing to stand together to fight for one.” CUPE pointed to other communities such as Kindersley, Yorkton and Melville that have recently reached agreements with civic employees. CTV News has reached out to the Town of Esterhazy and is awaiting a response. Esterhazy is located around 215 kilometres northeast of Regina.
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